Simple and convenient synthesis of esters from carboxylic acids and alkyl halides using tetrabutylammonium fluoride.

A simple and convenient method has been developed for the synthesis of esters from the corresponding carboxylic acids and alkyl halides by using a stoichiometric amount of tetrabutylammonium fluoride (Bu₄NF) as the base. The reaction of carboxylic acids and a Bu₄NF/THF solution in DMF or THF as the solvent generates carboxylate ions in situ. The carboxylate ions thus generated and accumulated are highly reactive.